Algeria will host Global Africa Tech 2026 from March 28 to 30 at the International Conference Center in Algiers under the high patronage of President Abdelmadjid Tebboune, reinforcing its ambition to position itself as a regional hub for digital infrastructure and continental connectivity.
The event is expected to attract more than 5,000 participants from 45 countries, including around 50 ministers and senior policymakers, alongside global technology companies and telecommunications experts.
Organized by the Ministry of Post and Telecommunications in partnership with Algeria Telecom, the forum is designed to strengthen Algeria’s standing as a digital gateway for Africa and accelerate technology integration across the continent. Officials describe the gathering as part of a broader national strategy aimed at anchoring Algeria at the center of Africa’s digital transformation.
Minister of Post and Telecommunications Sid Ali Zerrouki said the conference reflects a comprehensive vision for a digitally unified Africa. Held under the theme “All Networks, One Convergence,” the event will focus on integrating terrestrial, satellite, and submarine infrastructure into a secure and sustainable communications ecosystem.
Despite rapid mobile growth, many African countries continue to face significant digital divides. According to International Telecommunication Union data, internet penetration across Africa remains below the global average, with rural regions experiencing persistent connectivity gaps. Governments have increasingly prioritized regional infrastructure projects to expand broadband access and strengthen digital economies.
Key discussions at Global Africa Tech 2026 will center on expanding fiber optic networks to improve data speeds and service reliability. Terrestrial fiber investment has become increasingly critical as demand rises for cloud services, digital payments, and e-government platforms.
The conference will also highlight satellite and aerial communication initiatives aimed at extending coverage to remote and underserved areas. Satellite broadband solutions have gained prominence as governments seek more resilient connectivity options amid cybersecurity risks and climate-related disruptions.
Another major focus will be the protection of submarine cables and the development of smart ports. Submarine cable systems carry the vast majority of international data traffic, making them strategic assets for trade and digital commerce. Strengthening cable security and integrating smart port systems are viewed as essential for advancing Africa’s digital trade corridors under the African Continental Free Trade Area framework.
Algeria’s hosting of the forum follows other high-profile continental events, including the fourth Intra-African Trade Fair in September 2025 and the third African Startup Conference in December 2025, both aimed at deepening trade and innovation networks across Africa.
The Africa ICT Summit 2026 is also scheduled to take place in Algiers from April 21 to 23, drawing innovators, startups, investors, and regulators from across the continent.
In recent years, Algeria has expanded investments in fiber networks and data centers as part of its national digital strategy, alongside strengthening cybersecurity frameworks and regulatory reforms to attract technology investment.
